Black French tip nails are the chic untraditional design we're seeing for spring

Not a lover of ice cream pastels and cutesy floral designs? Black French tip nails are the anti-spring look on the rise...

A close up of a hand with short black French tip nails by nail artist @gel.bymegan, in a pink and peach watercolour template
(Image credit: @gel.bymegan)

Black French tip nails are the avant-garde take on the timeless design, which is proving to be an unexpected hit this spring - especially amongst those seeking an elevated and polished manicure...

So far, the 2024 nail trends have ushered in several stylish iterations of classic French tip nails but with springtime approaching, this latest addition is set to either divide - or delight. While the usual standbys are of course making a return - from spring flower nail designs to soft and creamy pastels - Black French tip nails are the answer for those who loathe bright and traditionally spring-themed shades and are instead, looking for the manicure equivalent of a little black dress.

They're minimalistic, versatile and extremely chic and might just become your signature nail look - especially if you're a short French tip nail fan...

Why black French tip nails are everywhere for spring

It's safe to say that 2024 is the year of the French tip and while we've already seen chrome and velvet French tips garnering attention, this season is all about the sophisticated black French tip. Like their milky white and nude counterpart, the design remains fairly understated - even when featuring a bold sweep of black - and is paired with a pink or sheer neutral base, to allow the tip to pop. 

If you're looking to achieve expensive-looking nails, black - like that of burgundy nails - is a staple shade for achieving a polished and stylish look. A black French tip especially, offers a high-fashion feel to an otherwise subtle design and can be adapted to suit every nail shape, from almond to "Squoval." 

Our black French tip staples

The beauty of a French mani lies in its simplicity, all you really need is a base coat and your chosen tip shade. That said though, to achieve a sleek and polished finish, nail care is key. We would recommend adding one of the best nail strengtheners to your kit, as well as a cuticle oil (like this OPI Cuticle Oil, from Amazon).

5 ways to wear a black French tip

Now, if you're feeling adventurous and want to try this oh-so-trendy nail look, we've rounded up a few stylish ways to wear a black French tip.

1. A black mirco French tip

For our minimalistic nail lovers, you can't go wrong with a micro French tip, especially when paired with a short and squoval nail shape. No matter what colour you choose, be it black or bright red, the design will still look somewhat understated, thanks to the thickness of the nail tip.

2. Classic Almond French tips

If you prefer mid to long nails, an almond nail shape paired with a black French tip is a very glamorous option. It's chic but simple and like every item of black clothing in your wardrobe, will go with - and elevate - everything. 

That being said though, because the nail tip is larger it might be a more difficult look to recreate at home, so we would recommend leaving it to the professionals, or else, investing in a set of nail art brushes - to help create that precise curve.

3. Short and squared black French tips

Squared nails are making a comeback this year and it's not hard to see why, especially when you see them paired with a stylish black French tip. The finish is very elevated and would work perfectly for a nighttime or event look.

4. Black double French tips

For a modern twist, try a double French tip. It's still subtle but adds a touch of interest to your manicure.

5. Black diagonal French tips

If you're already a black French tip fan and are looking to change things up slightly, a diagonal look is the perfect choice. It's easy to recreate and looks so elegant when paired with a glossy, semi-sheer base.

Naomi Jamieson
Digital Beauty Writer

Naomi is a Digital Beauty Writer from woman&home, where she covers everything from skincare to fragrance but specialises, particularly, in makeup and nail trends. Through her work, Naomi gets to share her trend expertise and share her own shopping recommendations and product reviews. Previously, she worked as a Lifestyle News Writer for My Imperfect Life magazine, where she used her savvy for TikTok to bring readers the latest beauty buzzwords, fashion movements and must-have products. 

Before that, Naomi split her time between both GoodTo and My Imperfect Life, whilst training for her Gold Standard diploma in Journalism with the NCTJ, for which she earned a Distinction. Interestingly though, Naomi actually has a background in design, having studied illustration at Plymouth University but leapt into the media world in 2020, after always having a passion for writing. Now, when she isn’t reporting on the best perfumes and latest beauty releases, you can find her drinking copious cups of coffee, drawing and probably online shopping...